Infection prevention and control (IPC)
Effective infection prevention and control IPC provides protection for aged care residents and workers.
The Aged Care Infection Prevention and Control Guide supports you to:
- meet the IPC-related strengthened Aged Care Quality Standards
- minimise the risk of infection for older people and the workforce.
We will continue working with providers to increase capability and embed best practice IPC and outbreak preparedness in residential aged care, This includes:
- access to IPC resources and online training
- surveillance and monitoring activities
- research and evaluation into existing IPC processes, including the IPC Lead role
- updates to IPC guidance to support best practises.
Vaccination
Regular vaccination is the best way to reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalisation or death from COVID-19.
Residential aged care providers are responsible for making COVID-19 vaccinations available to their residents and staff.
In aged care homes, COVID-19 vaccines are primarily given by primary care providers such as general practitioners (GP) and pharmacists. If you don’t have a GP or pharmacist available, talk with your Primary Health Network (PHN) for help booking a primary care vaccination provider.
Surveillance and reporting
We will continue to monitor and report on COVID-19 outbreaks in residential aged care homes.
COVID-19 vaccination rates for residential aged care homes are published monthly on our website.
Mental health supports
We provide grief and trauma support for people in the aged care sector who have been affected by COVID-19, through:
A range of digital and telehealth support services are available for help with mental health. This includes support for vulnerable people and those with severe and complex needs.
Visit the Head to Health website for information about mental health and digital support. Call Head to Health for free1800 595 212 (weekdays 8.30am-5pm). Receive mental health advice, information or referral to appropriate mental health services.
Resources
Publications and fact sheets
COVID-19 resources for health professionals, including aged care providers, pathology providers and health care managers
Stay informed
To stay up to date on aged care and COVID-19:
Find the latest advice and resources in your state or territory from your local public health agency.